Articles tagged with Urology
A study suggests that a change in vasectomy guidelines has resulted in fewer repeat semen analyses, potentially reducing unnecessary tests and costs. The updated guideline recommended less stringent criteria for confirming the success of vasectomy.
A new study from Keck Medicine of USC shows that men over 50 who undergo a vasectomy reversal achieve the same rate of pregnancy as those under 50. The study analyzed data from 3,000 men and found that age was not a factor in success rates.
A study of 514 men undergoing active surveillance for early-stage prostate cancer found that those with negative biopsies had more favorable clinical characteristics and excellent long-term outcomes. Negative biopsies indicated low-volume disease with lower rates of disease progression, supporting continued active surveillance.
A recent study found that men undergoing active surveillance for low-risk and intermediate-risk prostate cancer have very low rates of cancer spread and death from prostate cancer. The study analyzed 1,450 patients and identified three factors that affect the risk of metastases: Gleason grade, PSA velocity, and multiparametric MRI.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that ipilimumab improved progression-free survival by two to three times in patients with metastasized, castration-resistant prostate cancer. The treatment also showed overall survival benefits compared to the placebo arm.
Cryoablation, a less-invasive treatment technique, offers a promising alternative to surgery for prostate cancer control. According to the study, cryoablation provided a high rate of effective prostate cancer control in 82% of patients at 18-month follow-up.
A European survey found that a majority of men and women aged 20-70 do not know what erectile dysfunction (ED) is, with one in four having never heard of ED treatments. The study emphasizes the need for open communication about ED to break the taboo and improve treatment outcomes.
During the pandemic, an online urology lecture series has provided invaluable training opportunities for resident physicians, with thousands of views and overwhelmingly positive reviews. The multi-institutional collaboration, Urology COViD, has been a smashing success, offering a sense of community connectedness during social isolation.
A new US study finds that HIFU provides adequate control of prostate cancer while avoiding significant side effects, with nearly 90% of men able to avoid or delay radical treatment. The non-invasive therapy also preserves sexual function and urinary symptoms, with no serious complications reported.
A new study suggests that focal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation is an effective alternative to surgery or radiation for treating prostate cancer. The procedure carries a low risk of complication and helps preserve quality of life, with no significant decrease in sexual function or urinary incontinence.
A global methodology has been developed to help decide when to treat prostate cancer, providing a single standard for estimating tumour aggressiveness. The GAP3 consortium's analysis of 14,380 patients reveals that certain factors can predict cancer development, enabling more informed treatment decisions.
Researchers found that men are now more likely to visit clinics for Peyronie's disease and low sexual desire, while erectile dysfunction cases have declined. The study suggests a growing awareness of these conditions, possibly driven by increased openness and access to treatments.
A major study conducted by patients themselves reports significant numbers struggling with continence and sexual problems after prostate cancer treatment. The Europa Uomo Patient Reported Outcomes Study found that any treatment apart from active surveillance negatively affects quality of life.
A study of 3267 men found that watching porn is associated with greater erectile dysfunction and lower satisfaction with sex. The research suggests that the type of porn watched may contribute to impaired erectile function, with 23% of men under-35 experiencing some level of erectile dysfunction.
A new toolkit has been developed to help medical organizations rapidly adopt telemedicine as an alternative option. The guide uses a common electronic medical record system and widely available video portals to overcome social distancing edicts, allowing for successful adoption in three days.
Researchers found African-American men are less likely to use a more targeted biopsy option for prostate cancer, which could lead to overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis of the disease. The study suggests that socioeconomic or cultural biases may be influencing this disparity.
A new study published in The Journal of Urology found that a low-fat diet may be associated with lower testosterone levels in men. The study analyzed data from over 3,100 men and found that those on a low-fat diet had lower serum testosterone levels compared to those on an unrestricted diet.
A recent UCSF study reveals a significant spike in e-scooter-related injuries and hospital admissions, mainly among young adults. The number of scooter-related injuries increased by 222 percent between 2014 and 2018, with nearly 40,000 injuries reported.
A study published in Lancet Oncology reveals that online popularity of health awareness campaigns does not always lead to increased interest in related health behaviors. Researchers analyzed Google Trends data for specific keywords associated with each campaign and found that only breast cancer-related searches were influenced by the P...
The updated guideline recommends adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with adverse pathologic findings, such as seminal vesicle invasion and positive surgical margins. Hormonal therapy is also recommended for patients who receive salvage radiotherapy, based on evidence from randomized controlled trials.
Guidelines issued by North American specialty societies recommend health services linked to their specialties, differing from European guidelines. This phenomenon, known as 'specialty bias,' may exacerbate healthcare costs and worsen patient outcomes.
Researchers found that night shift workers reported a higher rate of overactive bladder and poorer quality of life compared to day shift workers. The study highlights the importance of addressing increased urinary frequency in nightshift workers, particularly those under 50 years old.
A new risk model developed by researchers can predict the survival of non-metastatic prostate cancer patients and the effect of different treatment approaches on survival. The PREDICT Prostate model uses data from over 10,000 men diagnosed with non-metastatic prostate cancer and has been validated in an external cohort.
The Polsky Urologic Cancer Institute will provide personalized, integrated, and innovative care to individuals with urologic cancers through a disease-centric program of research, education, and discovery. The institute aims to transform how urologic cancers are treated in Chicago and worldwide.
A new study found that antibiotics are being overused in up to 50% of patients undergoing common urological procedures, with extended use following the procedure being the main issue. This excessive use can promote antibiotic resistance and expose patients to potential harm.
A 20-year study from Northwestern Medicine found men with inflammatory bowel disease have four to five times higher risk of prostate cancer and elevated PSA values. Researchers are now investigating the mechanism behind gut inflammation leading to prostate cancer.
A new report highlights the common challenges faced by large health systems when implementing telehealth programs, including engaging leadership, prioritizing areas for support, and educating patients. Despite these hurdles, investing in telehealth can lead to significant cost savings and improved patient access.
The new guideline recommends moderate hypofractionation (240-340 cGy) as an alternative to conventional fractionation for men with early-stage prostate cancer. Hypofractionated radiation therapy can be completed in four to five weeks, compared to eight to nine weeks for conventional radiation.
A new study finds that baseline PSA levels measured at midlife strongly predict total and aggressive prostate cancer in black men years later. The research suggests targeted screening based on a midlife PSA might identify black men at high risk while minimizing screening in those at low risk.
Women who drank an additional 1.5 liters of water daily experienced 48% fewer repeat bladder infections than those who drank their usual volume of fluids, according to the study. This finding is significant as over half of women report having bladder infections, which are one of the most common infections in women.
A large-scale study in Germany found that nearly ten percent of gay men had engaged in vaginal sex with women in the past three months, challenging traditional notions of sexual orientation. Additionally, a significant percentage of heterosexual men were found to have had non-traditional sex practices, including oral and anal sex.
A controlled trial found that women who drank an additional 1.5 liters of water daily experienced 48 percent fewer repeat bladder infections compared to those who drank their usual volume of fluids. This increased fluid intake may help reduce the use of antibiotics and combat antibiotic resistance.
A survey of over 2,500 respondents found low awareness of urological conditions, particularly among men. Men are less knowledgeable about urological symptoms than women, and many do not take early signs seriously, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially life-threatening consequences.
A six-year California records analysis found that vaginal mesh use is not associated with an increased risk of repeat surgery for recurrent prolapse. Careful patient selection is key to achieving good outcomes. The study suggests using strategies to balance surgical complication risks versus the risk of surgery for recurrent prolapse.
A new study from UT Southwestern researchers highlights the importance of diagnosing and treating stress urinary incontinence in men, who often wait years before seeking help. The study recommends a standing cough test as a routine part of male patients' physicals to accurately diagnose and treat this condition.
Researchers explore the role of diverse bacteria in common urologic diseases affecting children, including urinary tract infections and urge urinary incontinence. Probiotics and dietary modifications show potential to prevent or treat these conditions.
A study of 2014 Medicare data found that urologists who saw more patients had lower online patient ratings, while those who saw fewer patients received higher ratings. This association may be linked to factors such as wait times and overall patient satisfaction.
A team of experts from around the world collaborated to develop a program to treat bladder exstrophy in children, resulting in improved patient outcomes and long-term sustainability. The program, which includes rigorous patient follow-up and training of local surgeons, has transformed care for children born with this complex disorder.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that men with varicoceles, enlarged veins in the scrotum, are more likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. However, asymptomatic varicoceles do not increase the risk of these diseases.
A recent study reveals that 40% of hospitals do not routinely utilize CT shielding to protect patients from stray radiation during diagnostic imaging. Despite being aware of its benefits, only 84% of hospitals report using shielding, highlighting the need for increased awareness and implementation.
The Prostate Health Index test influences physician decisions to perform biopsies, with only 36% of men receiving biopsies when phi testing was included in the assessment compared to 60% before its availability. The study also found a reduction in low-grade prostate cancers detected.
A new study found that patients undergoing urological surgery are at risk of opioid dependence or overdose, with younger age, depression, and tobacco use being key risk factors. Urologists urge a balanced approach to prescribing opioids to minimize risks and maximize patient safety.
A study published in JAMA found that older adults taking blood-thinning medications are at a higher risk of hematuria-related complications, including emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The prevalence and severity of these complications are largely unknown, highlighting the need for further research.
A new study shows significant improvement in sexual and urinary function as well as quality of life for hypogonadal men undergoing long-term testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone therapy is found to increase bladder emptying, improve erectile/sexual health and overall quality of life.
A recent study published in Pain investigated widespread pain and its relation to the brain. Researchers found that individuals with widespread pain had increased gray matter and brain connectivity in sensory and motor cortical areas, similar to those with fibromyalgia.
A study by Loyola Medicine found that 0.09% of patients who underwent urologic surgery were diagnosed with opioid dependence or overdose (ODO) within a year. Patients at highest risk for ODO were younger, had longer hospital stays, and were on Medicaid or Medicare.
A new biopsy technique combining MRI and ultrasound improves prostate cancer detection. Researchers found that patients are willing to pay $1,598 more for a biopsy increasing the likelihood of detecting all types of prostate cancer from 43% to 51%.
A study found that nearly half of new doctors' Facebook profiles contain concerning content, including self-authored unprofessional posts and confidential patient information. Researchers warn about the impact on online and offline behavior as a new generation of physicians enters practice.
A new study reveals that only 30% of men in a national survey reported having a balanced discussion with their doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. This trend has become less likely since the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against PSA testing in 2012.
The CLUE Working Group conducted two systematic reviews to address thrombosis and hemorrhage risks after urological cancer operations and other forms of urological surgery. The studies found that anticoagulant prophylaxis is justified in high-risk patients, but not necessarily in low-risk procedures.
Children's National urologist Michael Hsieh is awarded a $1 million grant to generate mutant forms of IPSE, a parasite-derived protein that may alleviate bladder pain. The goal is to develop IPSE as an alternative to opioids for treating pain in general.
Researchers at Buck Institute for Research on Aging found that alpha-lipoic acid prevented stone formation in a mouse model of cystinuria, a rare inherited disease. The supplement increased the solubility of cystine crystals, providing a new function for alpha-lipoic acid.
A study of three genes associated with prostate cancer found that men with inherited mutations are more likely to develop aggressive forms and die earlier. The study suggests that germline mutations in these genes can be used to predict risk for lethal prostate cancer.
A new review of 55 kidney stone studies suggests alpha blockers may be useful in facilitating stone passage, particularly for patients with larger stones. The findings indicate a 57% higher risk of stone passage for larger stones with an alpha blocker, but no benefit for smaller stones.
The Sexual Medicine Society of North America renamed its Lifetime Achievement Award to honor Dr. Lewis, a pioneer in treating male sexual dysfunction. He made significant contributions to promoting standards and ethics in sexual medicine, serving as president and chairing various committees.
A study of 2386 men with localized prostate cancer found that second opinions did not affect treatment choice or quality of care. Men who sought second opinions due to dissatisfaction with their initial urologist were less likely to receive definitive treatment.
Following the USPSTF recommendation against population-based PSA screening, median biopsy volume per urologist decreased by 29% and RP volume decreased by 16%. Prostate cancer diagnostic and therapeutic practice patterns have shifted significantly.
The Pitt Urology Department has been awarded $7.7 million to investigate BPH and LUTS, aiming to develop novel preventative and therapeutic approaches. The center will focus on inflammation involved in these conditions.
A five-year review of over 275,000 visits at UT Southwestern Medical Center showed that PSA testing remained unchanged despite revised guidelines discouraging its use. The study found slight increases in PSA levels after the guidelines were revised, but these had little clinical impact on treatment or results.
A new study published in The Journal of Urology reveals that female urologists perform more procedures on women and have higher surgical volumes for gender-specific cases. This finding challenges the assumption that women prefer to see female physicians, with results showing a significant difference in treatment rates across regions.